6 Ways to Enjoy a No-Pressure Valentine’s Day (Regardless of Your Relationship Status!)

Olivia Clancy, Communications Intern

Valentine’s Day can be difficult as it emphasizes the “special someone” in your life. There are set expectations of roses, chocolates, and candle-lit dinners but here are some ways to reclaim the day and make it about the most special someone in your life—you.

1. Treat yourself to something special!

Cupcakes? Tulips? A new bathbomb? Whatever your treat is, it can be what you want it to be and not what decades of tradition say it should be.

2. Make a dinner plans for one.

Whether this means making a reservation at your favorite restaurant, cooking your signature dish, or ordering in and hibernating for the night, you don’t have to worry about aligning your tastes with anyone else’s.

3. Have a playlist to set the mood of self-love and body positivity.

With radio stations blaring some of the most epic romance songs, it may be helpful to tune in to your own playlist instead. Fill it with songs that empower you to love yourself and if you need suggestions, check out some of our favorites!

4. Write a love note to yourself.

While it may be harder to write yourself a love letter instead of writing one to someone else, it will definitely be worth it. Talk about all the reasons you have to be happy with yourself and put your greatness into words that you can read any day of the year.

5. Pay attention to how you feel.

This is important every day but is especially crucial on a day that is so emotionally charged. Check in with yourself throughout the day so you know what you’re feeling and what you need, whether it’s a hug, a breath of fresh air or a reminder of how special you are.

6. Don’t be afraid to reach out.

If you’re struggling in the moment, know that you have people around you to help. This could mean scheduling a Facetime with your parents, group texting with your best friends, or getting in touch with NEDA.

However you choose to spend the day, remember to know your worth and how special you are.

Olivia Clancy is a sophomore at New York University studying applied psychology and child and adolescent mental health studies. She plans on using her own experiences with mental illness to help others in her future career as a clinical psychologist.